When he was drafted with the seventh overall pick in the 2004 NFL draft, many thought that Roy Williams, along with Charles Rogers (the previous year’s pick), would form a superstar receiving tandem that would make the Detroit Lions Super Bowl contenders for years.  History tells us how badly that notion failed...  
 

In retrospect, there were many flaws to this plan.  The biggest issue that hindered the situation was the lack of an NFL quality quarterback in Joey Harrington.  Another early round bust for Detroit, Harrington never developed the mental game to succeed in the pros and dealt with a loss of confidence.  The offensive line was also a mess and therefore, the Lions were never able to boast a running game to complement their air attack.  With all of those tertiary shortcomings in place, the scheme never had a chance to get off the ground.
 

However, at the time, there was plenty of reason for optimism.  Williams was, and still is, a physical specimen who possessed not only the coveted dimensions for a receiver in today’s NFL (6'3, 211 lbs.), but also good speed and an outstanding leaping ability.
 

While Rogers never panned out due to injuries and other issues, Williams has managed to carve out a decent, if erratic, career for himself.  The highlights of that career thus far include a Pro Bowl selection, over 4,000 receiving yards and 30 touchdowns. 

He grew tired of losing in the Motor City and, last season, finally escaped via trade to the Dallas Cowboys.  Again, expectations were high for him.  With Terrell Owens commanding the attention of many defenses, Williams should have been able to function as the best WR2 that Dallas had since Terry Glenn.  Unfortunately, Williams was suffering from plantar fascia, a painful foot condition that impairs an athlete’s speed and ability to push off, which limited his effectiveness.  His situation in Dallas worsened when Tony Romo was injured and, due to the missed time, the two never developed that crucial chemistry needed for success.  Williams ended the season with career-low 36 receptions for 430 yards and two touchdowns, making him a flaming disappointment in fantasy circles.
 

So, the big question is: Will he bounce back in 2009?
 

The gathering forces of circumstance point to a resounding “yes”.
 

The biggest occurrence that impacts Williams and bodes well for his chances this year is the fact that the Cowboys finally tired of Owens' diva act and released him in early March.  They are not expected to seek out another big-time wide receiver (though, truthfully, that could change in the coming weeks and months).  For now, it looks as though Williams will be the main guy for them.
 

This will also be the first time in his career that Williams will be working with an All Pro quarterback.  Do not underestimate that little detail. Tony Romo will have the offseason to develop the timing with Williams that was missing.  You can bet they’ll be on the same page when the season starts.
 

Even better for Williams, he won’t have to carry the load himself.  The Cowboys already have an outstanding running game with Marion Barber and Felix Jones.  All-Pro TE Jason Witten will continue to contribute heavily as well.  The pressure to perform miracles will be off and Williams can simply concentrate on being the best WR he can be. 
 

Finally, Williams is smack in the middle of his prime and still possesses those wonderful physical gifts that made him such a coveted property at one time.  If he can stay healthy this season, there’s no reason that he can’t put up career numbers.
 

If you want to draft Williams, you’ll have to do it when the run on the first tier of wide receivers in your draft begins.  That means you could be taking him as early as the third round in some leagues.  That’s a high slot to take a chance on a guy who hasn’t consistently proven he can deliver.  However, if you have the guts, he just may spearhead your drive to fantasy gold.

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